CVE-2014-2505 in RSA Archer GRC
Summary
by MITRE
EMC RSA Archer GRC Platform 5.x before 5.5 SP1 allows remote attackers to trigger the download of arbitrary code, and consequently change the product s functionality, via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2019
The CVE-2014-2505 vulnerability affects the EMC RSA Archer GRC Platform version 5.x prior to 5.5 SP1, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code downloads and subsequently modify platform functionality. This vulnerability resides within the platform's file handling mechanisms and download capabilities, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise the system's integrity. The unspecified vectors suggest that the flaw could be exploited through multiple attack surfaces including web interfaces, API endpoints, or file upload mechanisms within the application. The vulnerability's severity stems from its ability to allow attackers to download and execute arbitrary code on the target system, effectively granting them the capability to modify core platform functionality and potentially escalate their privileges within the environment. The impact extends beyond simple code execution as it enables attackers to fundamentally alter the platform's behavior and operational capabilities.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-502, which addresses deserialization of untrusted data, and potentially CWE-22, concerning path traversal vulnerabilities, as attackers can manipulate file download processes to access and execute unauthorized code. The flaw likely involves insufficient input validation and improper access controls within the platform's code download and execution pathways. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious requests that bypass normal file handling restrictions, allowing them to download and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input or when it lacks adequate sandboxing mechanisms to prevent unauthorized code execution. The unspecified nature of the attack vectors suggests that multiple entry points within the platform could be compromised, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it provides attackers with multiple potential exploitation methods.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2505 is severe and multifaceted, as it directly compromises the integrity and availability of the RSA Archer GRC Platform. Organizations utilizing affected versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive governance, risk, and compliance data, potential system compromise, and complete loss of platform functionality. The ability to download and execute arbitrary code means attackers can install backdoors, modify security controls, or completely takeover the platform. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where the RSA Archer platform is used for critical governance and compliance operations, as it undermines the trustworthiness of the entire system. The attack surface includes not only the platform itself but also any data or processes that depend on its integrity, potentially leading to widespread security breaches. Organizations may experience data exfiltration, system downtime, regulatory compliance violations, and significant financial and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2505 should prioritize immediate deployment of EMC's official security patches and updates, specifically targeting the 5.5 SP1 release that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations must implement robust input validation and access control mechanisms to prevent unauthorized code execution and file downloads. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the platform's administrative interfaces and file download endpoints. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities within the platform and surrounding infrastructure. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should establish comprehensive incident response procedures and regularly update their security policies to address the evolving threat landscape. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in future software development cycles. Organizations should consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059, which involves execution through command and scripting interpreters, emphasizing the need for comprehensive endpoint protection and monitoring solutions to detect and prevent such attacks.